Popliteal Cyst: Etiology, Diagnosis and Management, a Current Concept Review Publisher



Sharafatvaziri A ; Farahmand Y ; Vosoughi F ; Moezi M ; Soleymani M
Source: Archives of Bone and Joint Surgery Published:2026

Abstract

A popliteal cyst, also referred to as a Baker’s cyst, is among the most common cystic lesions encountered around the knee joint in orthopedic practice, resulting from distension of the gastrocnemius – semimembranosus bursa within the popliteal fossa and is typically filled with synovial fluid. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is widely used to detect and characterize these cysts. Various invasive and non-invasive therapeutic strategies have been described for the management of Baker ’s cysts. This review summarizes the clinical presentation, diagnostic evaluation, and current management approaches for popliteal cysts. Level of evidence: V. © 2026 Mashhad University of Medical Sciences.